Whether you’re a winter athlete or just a fan of snowy adventures, Steamboat Springs has plenty of activities to keep you occupied during your winter vacation.
In mid-February, Steamboat celebrates western heritage and winter sports with the annual Winter Carnival. Events include street slalom, skijoring (skier pulled by horse!), ring and spear, donkey jump and the adult shovel race.
Cowboy Downhill
One of Steamboat Springs’ most celebrated Western traditions is the annual Cowboy Downhill. This event started 48 years ago when Steamboat’s director of skiing, Billy Kidd, invited a few Pro Rodeo cowboys to come down and ski the slopes at Steamboat Springs Resort.
Now, the event is an iconic Steamboat tradition and is attended by over 100 of the country’s best professional rodeo cowboys every January. This family-friendly ski rodeo is a unique experience that celebrates Steamboat’s Western heritage and present-day mountain culture.
Next winter, a new lift will add 650 more acres of expert-to-advanced terrain to Steamboat’s already diverse skiing and snowboarding offerings. Moreover, the gondola-served beginner area was revamped this year to help first-time skiers and riders hone their skills.
Cycling
Cycling is a great way to get an active workout during your vacation. Not only is it low impact, but it also helps you develop better posture and balance.
Whether you want to bike around town, or go for a long ride on the mountain, you’ll find plenty of options in Steamboat Springs. And thanks to the city’s designation as a GOLD level bicycle-friendly community, you’ll be sure to have a safe and enjoyable time.
If you’re looking for a new way to stay active this winter, fat biking is a great option. In fact, many local bike shops rent out fat bikes for you to explore the trails throughout Steamboat Springs.
Sled Dogs
Steamboat Spring has long been a winter destination with tons of unique, outdoor winter activities. If you are looking for an epic winter adventure in Colorado, look no further than a dog sledding tour.
While you don’t need to travel to an Arctic location to try the thrill of dog sledding (Grizzle-T in Steamboat Springs offers expert-led tours where you get pulled by Alaskan Huskies) it is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Guests can learn to drive their own dog team or choose a guided sled ride where they hear stories from Iditarod veterans.
Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works is the premier dog sledding company in Steamboat Springs. Run by Iditarod Musher Kris Hoffman and his family, they offer guide-driven or self-driven backcountry tours through the beautiful Yampa Valley.
Ice Bumper Cars
If you’re looking for something new to do in Steamboat Springs, ice bumper cars are an easy way to experience the snow and enjoy a bit of wintertime fun. Since December 18, The Rink at Base Village has been home to 16 of these vehicles, available for all ages to drive each day.
Originally started by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, this festival has become a beloved winter event for locals and guests alike. Typically occurring during the second week of February, it’s a popular way to celebrate Western heritage and winter sports.
The tradition is rooted in the town’s long-standing cowboy history and brings unique spectacles like kids on skis being pulled behind horses down main street, or skiers jumping through fiery hoops. You can also enjoy a cowboy sleigh ride, dog sledding and more.
Escape Room
Steamboat Springs is one of the most popular winter skiing destinations in Colorado. But you can also enjoy a mountain getaway in summer, with a variety of family-friendly activities to choose from.
Escape Room, a Steamboat Spring Winter Activities tradition, challenges teams of 2-8 to find clues and solve puzzles within 60 minutes. This family-friendly game is a great way to spend quality time together while getting out of the house!
Easy Escape is a cozy condo, sleeps up to 7. It has all the amenities you need for a perfect get-a-way. From new ceiling fans to a queen sleeper sofa with memory foam mattress, it is the perfect spot for your family to relax after a day of fun! Guests can also use the small balcony off of the living area for a quick drink or weather check.